Since its establishment in 1963, the NIS had never operated a central passport production centre. Dr. Tunji-Ojo described the transition as a “major reform milestone” for Nigeria’s immigration system, highlighting its potential to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery for millions of Nigerians
The Minister revealed that under the old decentralised system, passport production machines could only produce between 250 to 300 passports per day. With the new centralised system, production capacity has now increased to an impressive 4,500 to 5,000 passports daily.
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“With this, NIS can now meet daily demands within just four to five hours of operation,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo said, describing the development as a “game changer” for passport processing in Nigeria.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also disclosed that the Federal Government had earlier promised a two-week delivery time for passports. However, with the new centralised system, the NIS is now pushing to achieve one-week delivery for passport applications.
He emphasised the importance of automation and optimisation in keeping this promise to Nigerians, noting that the new system would drastically reduce delays and improve overall service quality.
According to the Minister, the centralisation of passport production is in line with global standards and will enhance the uniformity and integrity of Nigerian travel documents worldwide.
This reform is expected to significantly reduce irregularities, curb passport-related fraud, and restore public confidence in the Nigeria Immigration Service.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further noted that the centralised production system is part of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, which seeks to modernise public services, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen Nigeria’s institutional capacity.
He described the new system as a step toward bringing services closer to Nigerians, while promoting a culture of efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public administration.
- Higher Production Capacity: From 250-300 to 4,500-5,000 passports daily.
- Faster Delivery: NIS now targets one-week passport issuance.
- Improved Security: Reduced fraud and irregularities in passport processing.
- Global Standards: Enhanced integrity and recognition of Nigerian travel documents worldwide.
- Better Service Delivery: Aligned with government’s reform agenda for efficiency.
The launch of the Centralised Passport Personalisation Centre marks a bold step toward modernising Nigeria’s immigration services. With improved capacity, efficiency, and global alignment, the NIS is now better positioned to meet the passport demands of a growing population, while boosting Nigeria’s image internationally.
As the NIS embarks on this new chapter, Nigerians can expect faster, more reliable, and more secure passport services that meet international best practices.
Source: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) — www.nannews.ng
Why did the NIS end decentralised passport production?
The Nigeria Immigration Service ended decentralised passport production to improve efficiency, enhance security, reduce fraud, and align with global standards for passport processing.
How many passports can the new centralised system produce daily?
The new system can produce between 4,500 and 5,000 passports daily compared to the old system’s 250–300 daily capacity.
How fast can Nigerians get their passports under the new system?
With the centralised passport production, the NIS targets a one-week delivery timeline, down from the previous two-week promise.
Where is the Centralised Passport Personalisation Centre located?
The new centre is located at the Nigeria Immigration Service Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.
How does this reform align with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda?
The centralised passport system is part of President Tinubu’s reform agenda to improve service delivery, modernise government operations, and increase efficiency across federal agencies.
Will the centralised system reduce passport-related fraud?
Yes, the new centralised system improves uniformity, enhances the integrity of Nigerian travel documents, and significantly reduces irregularities and passport-related fraud.
How long does it take to produce a Nigerian passport?
The average processing time for a Nigerian passport is between 3 to 6 weeks after biometric capture. However, with the new centralised system, delivery is targeted within one week in most cases.
What are the types of Nigerian passport?
There are mainly three types of Nigerian passports:
- Standard Passport (Green): For ordinary citizens traveling abroad.
- Official Passport (Blue): For government officials on official duty.
- Diplomatic Passport (Red): For diplomats and top government officials.
The new
Enhanced e-Passport is also available in 32-page and 64-page booklets.
How do I know if my Nigerian passport is ready for collection?
You can check the status of your Nigerian passport by visiting the official Nigeria Immigration Service portal at
passport.immigration.gov.ng and entering your application details under the “Passport Application Status” section.
Which country prints the Nigerian passport?
Nigerian passports are designed and issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service in partnership with Iris Smart Technologies.
The Enhanced e-Passport is printed locally in Nigeria and at select Nigerian missions abroad.
